Research from McKinsey & Company shows relationships with management are the top factor in employees’ levels of satisfaction with their jobs, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. When employees have a great manager, they often are more motivated and feel valued and accepted.
Although no single set of traits guarantees someone will be a good boss or manager, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce shares the following manager personality traits many employees highly value.
- Extraversion. Studies have found managers with high levels of extraversion positively influence their employees’ job satisfaction. Extraverted managers typically are sociable, assertive and excitable. They often are described as energetic and enthusiastic.
- Communication skills. Managers often serve as the channel for information between senior leaders and employees. Without strong communication skills, employees may be uncertain of expectations, which can lead to issues such as poor performance and frustrated teams.
- Emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand, use and manage your emotions positively to relieve stress and communicate. Employees value managers with high emotional intelligence who can respond to conflict and ease morale issues in ways that benefit everyone.
- Accountability. Accountable managers are trustworthy, fair and set clear expectations for their teams. Accountability also can help create stronger collaboration.
- Honesty. Employees want authentic communication that makes them believe they play a role in the company’s success. Research shows honesty and transparency can help employees align with the company’s mission and values, even when they do not completely agree with decisions being made.
